What is the meaning of Genesis 25:22? But the children inside her struggled with each other - Rebekah’s long-awaited pregnancy (after twenty years, Genesis 25:20, 26) becomes turbulent; the “struggle” is real, physical, and purposeful. - Scripture elsewhere shows prenatal activity as known to God (Psalm 139:13-16), and in this case He is already shaping two nations (Genesis 25:23). - Hosea 12:3 looks back, “In the womb he grasped his brother’s heel,” underlining that the conflict begins before birth and will mark Jacob and Esau’s lives. - Paul later cites the twins in Romans 9:10-12 to teach divine election; their prenatal striving previews how God’s sovereign plan overrides human custom (the younger will surpass the older). - This moment also reminds readers of the ongoing clash between flesh and promise first hinted at with Ishmael and Isaac (Genesis 17:18-21; 21:9-12). and she said, “Why is this happening to me?” - Rebekah voices a heartfelt cry common to believers facing confusing circumstances: “Why?” - Her question is not unbelief but honest perplexity, echoing others who sought answers—Job (Job 3:11), Hannah (1 Samuel 1:11), even Mary (Luke 1:34). - Having treasured God’s gift of conception, she now wrestles with the possibility that something might be wrong; motherhood often carries such mingled joy and anxiety. - The wording shows she perceives the turmoil as more than normal fetal movement; she senses a spiritual dimension and longs for God’s perspective. So Rebekah went to inquire of the LORD - Instead of enduring silent fear, she seeks the Lord—the model response for every believer (Psalm 34:4; James 1:5). - The text suggests direct prayer, but some commentators note she may have gone to a designated place or person; either way, the initiative is hers. - Isaac had earlier practiced meditation in the field (Genesis 24:63); now Rebekah personally approaches God, demonstrating that covenant access is not limited by gender or role. - The Lord’s immediate reply in verse 23 proves that seeking Him brings light: He reveals both the cause (the twins’ struggle) and the outcome (reversal of birthright expectations). - Her inquiry turns panic into purpose, showing that divine revelation transforms present pain into hope for the future. summary Genesis 25:22 pictures twin sons literally wrestling in Rebekah’s womb, signaling God’s sovereign plan for Jacob and Esau. Rebekah’s troubled “Why?” drives her to seek the Lord, and He answers, turning confusion into clarity. The verse urges believers to recognize God’s hand even in unsettling circumstances and to respond by earnestly inquiring of Him, confident He will speak through His unchanging Word. |
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